Analysing space-time patterns of maternal mortality attributed to anaemia in Karnataka, India: a spatial epidemiological study

Abstract

Background Maternal health is a globally important health challenge and is the key indicator of healthcare services in any given region. One of the main objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 3.1 is to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 1-lakh live births. Most data on maternal mortality are collected and analysed on global, national and subnational levels and regional levels are lacking. Anaemia is one of the major causes of maternal death in India and its data visualisation using geospatial mapping plays a significant role in addressing the emerging need for improved spatial investigation. Geospatial studies of maternal mortality can help policy-makers to prioritise resources by pinpointing geographical areas for implementation.Methodology Spatial data analysis is effectively used in assessing the spatial distribution of maternal deaths, which are attributed to anaemia as a risk factor for maternal deaths. The data on maternal deaths in Karnataka were acquired and analysed at district level for the years 2017–2022 and thematic maps were generated in geographical information system environment. Further, areal interpolation analysis was explored in deriving the layers that predict the underlying risk of maternal deaths attributed to anaemia in the present study using the available data.Results Five out of 30 districts showed more than 10% of maternal deaths attributed to anaemia during 2017–2020 while these numbers were increased to 10 during 2020–2021 and later reduced to 6 districts during 2021–2022. Areal interpolation revealed the highest risk areas of maternal deaths attributed to anaemia in Karnataka for the past 5 years (2017–2018 to 2021–2022).Conclusion Study concluded that by providing a spatial perspective, geospatial analysis has the potential to transform maternal healthcare. Anaemia-related maternal deaths can be minimised by providing specific interventions among disadvantaged women in the Karnataka region.